Viewing page 27 of 60

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

-1-

THE BLACK AMERICAN RESPONCE 

BACKGROUND & HISTORY:

It could not be expected that a people torn from their geography, brought in bondage to a foreign land, would be able to continue their ancestral traditions.

As soon as the had an opportunity, however black artisans and craftsman in this country, showed they could add artistic charm to function.  Black builders designed and built a number of grandiose Southern mansions.  Some of the ability of the Ashanti iron Workers, seemed to emerged in the men who executed many of the handsome iron-grill balconies and gates in New Orleans, Charleston and Mobile.  Simple furniture and intricately carved woodwork, pottery, cotton prints, embroidered dresses, patterned textiles, silverware, were among the crafts that black people managed with exquisite ability.

It was not until the 19th century that a few black painters and sculptors emerged.  Joshua Johnston-Robert Ducanson- Edmonia Lewis and Henry O. Tanner are most notable.  In fact during his lifetime, Tanner was one the most honored American painters. His canvas " The rising of Lazarus" which was purchased for the Luxembourg Museum in Paris, brought him international acclaim.  His works were acquired by many museums here and abroad.  As a fitting tribute he was made a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor by the French Government.